Boating & Things to Do in Jacksonville

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Jim King Boat Ramp is a versatile and family-friendly park offering a wide range of amenities for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts. With ample parking, clean restrooms, and multiple docks, it serves as a convenient launching point for both kayaks and larger boats. The area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with trout and flounder frequently caught by visitors. While weekends can get busy, the park's spacious layout ensures a pleasant experience for all. The surrounding protected creek provides a serene setting for overnight stays, making it a popular spot for those looking to enjoy nature and the water.

Epping Forest Yacht Club is a historic and luxurious waterfront venue in Jacksonville, Florida, renowned for its stunning architecture and beautifully manicured grounds. This elegant location offers breathtaking waterfront views, making it a perfect backdrop for weddings and special events. With its romantic and timeless charm, Epping Forest provides an unforgettable experience for guests, complete with exquisite on-site dining and ample opportunities for capturing memorable photos.

Lighthouse Marina Jax is a well-situated marina offering a variety of essential amenities for boaters. Known for its convenient dockage options, it caters to both transient visitors and liveaboard residents. The marina provides access to fresh water, restrooms, and laundry facilities, making it a practical choice for extended stays. While the location is praised for its waterfront appeal, visitors are advised to maintain thorough records of transactions and communications.

A fishing dock is also present to the north of the ramp. The restrooms are in the park, a short drive from the boat ramp. Additional car parking and an accessible car parking spot is available by the bathrooms.

Sandollar Restaurant is a vibrant riverfront dining spot known for its locally caught seafood and steaks. With a spacious patio hosting live music, it offers a lively atmosphere perfect for families and groups. Boaters can enjoy the convenience of dockage, making it an ideal stop for a meal by the water.

The Florida Yacht Club, nestled in the Ortega neighborhood of Jacksonville, is a historic marina that offers a blend of tradition and modern amenities. As the oldest social club in Jacksonville and the fourth oldest surviving yacht club in the U.S., it boasts a rich history dating back to 1876. The current clubhouse, designed in the Mediterranean Revival style, provides a picturesque setting with stunning views of downtown Jacksonville. The club is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect venue for events and gatherings. Boaters can enjoy dockage, on-site dining, and easy access to the local scene.

Seafarers Marina in Jacksonville is a tranquil and well-maintained marina that offers a peaceful retreat for boaters. Known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, this marina provides essential amenities such as fuel, water, ice, and wifi, making it a convenient stop for both transient and long-term visitors. The marina's location offers easy access to local attractions, and its serene environment is perfect for relaxation.

Trout River Pier is a scenic spot perfect for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful place to unwind. The pier offers stunning views, especially during sunset, making it a great photo opportunity. While the area has seen improvements in cleanliness, it remains a popular fishing location where anglers can catch a variety of fish, including trout and mangrove snappers. The pier is accessible by dinghy, making it a convenient stop for boaters looking to enjoy some time on the river.

Amity Marina and Yacht Club is a vibrant marina offering a mix of leisure and convenience for boaters. With easy access to the water, it features brand-new lifts and slips, making it a great spot for both transient and long-term boaters. The marina is known for its lively atmosphere, complete with a pool, games, and frequent food trucks, ensuring there's always something happening. On-site dining and nearby provisioning make it a convenient stop for those looking to relax and enjoy the local scene.

The Plaza Berkman Marina offers a vibrant docking experience right in the heart of the city. Boaters can enjoy the convenience of being close to local attractions and nightlife, with the added bonus of stunning riverfront views and beautiful sunsets. While the area is bustling with activity, it provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local scene.

Andreu Marina is a welcoming marina known for its good vibes and helpful staff. Boaters can enjoy essential amenities such as dockage, wifi, and restrooms, making it a convenient stop for transient boaters.

St Johns Boat Co is a full-service marina and boatyard located in Jacksonville, Florida, known for its exceptional customer service and skilled technicians. Boaters can expect a welcoming atmosphere and professional assistance for all their maintenance and repair needs. The yard is equipped to handle a variety of services, from bottom painting to complex mechanical repairs, ensuring that vessels are in top condition. With a reputation for timely and on-budget work, this marina is a trusted stop for transient boaters and locals alike.

Public boat ramp managed by United States National Park Service. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

3 floating docks are located at the boat ramp and there is also a fishing pier within the park.

Picnic tables are available by the bathrooms without reservations but the picnic pavilions require reservations. The majority of the vehicle parking spaces are located in the parking area by the bathrooms. A fishing pier/observation dock is also located within the park

Harbortown Marina in Jacksonville is a secure and community-focused marina, ideal for long-term boaters seeking a stable and friendly environment. The marina boasts excellent floating concrete docks and is well-protected, making it a great hurricane hole. While it lacks transient services such as pump-out and fuel, these are conveniently located nearby. The marina is strategically positioned with easy access to the St. Johns River and the ocean, making it a prime location for those looking to explore Jacksonville and beyond.

Harbortown Marina is a secure and well-protected marina known for its floating concrete docks and vibrant liveaboard community. Located conveniently near the St. Johns River and the ocean, it offers easy access to both downtown Jacksonville and St. Augustine. While it lacks transient facilities like fuel and pump-out services, these are available nearby. The marina is ideal for those looking for a long-term docking solution in a serene and friendly environment.

Limited parking. The only parking available is parallel parking along the road that appears to also be used by a nearby business sometimes.

Palm Cove Marina is a full-service marina located conveniently off the Intracoastal Waterway, offering easy access to the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its friendly and helpful staff, the marina provides a welcoming stop for transient boaters looking to refuel, restock, or simply rest. With clean facilities, a travel lift, and proximity to restaurants and stores, it's an ideal spot for those traveling north or south along the coast.

Located in Fort Family Regional Park. Loose gravel ramp surface, 4X4 advised.

There is designated accessible parking spot, but it is not paved.

Lakeshore Marine Center is a vibrant marina offering top-notch docking facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for boaters. Located in Jacksonville, it serves as a hub for marine services, including certified Honda outboard repairs. Boaters can enjoy the convenience of bringing their own food while relaxing by the water, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Turn right on the dirt road just after the park entrance gate, before the second gate and follow the road around to the side of the lake that is across from the kayak launch and office. This is where you will find the ramp. The picnic tables and grill are by the office and kayak launch dock.

The parking spots double for both vehicle parking and vehicles with trailer parking. There is 1 paved accessible vehicle parking space located by the bathrooms. A separate fixed fishing pier is also present in the park.

Ramp is a natural sand shoreline. 2 paved accessible parking spots are available at the dock entrance.

Situated along Heckscher Drive on the Sisters Creek / St. Johns River waterway in Jacksonville, Palms Fish Camp Restaurant is an iconic waterfront spot for boaters pulling up off the channel. Featuring dedicated dockage and a public boat ramp adjacent to the property, diners can step off the boat and straight onto the deck for fresh Mayport shrimp, triggerfish, clam chowder, and bread pudding accompanied by live music and panoramic river views.

Concrete ramp covered with sand. Low slope shoreline. Launching a trailer would require backing far into the water and is not advised.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Overflow parking is also available in the grass.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Mulberry Cove Marina, nestled on a military base, offers a tranquil escape with stunning riverfront views and a peaceful atmosphere. While the marina has suffered damage from past hurricanes, it remains a serene spot for those with base access to enjoy nature and unwind. The marina is currently undergoing construction, with hopes of restoring its facilities to full capacity. Visitors can enjoy kayaking adventures and explore nearby wetlands, making it a unique spot for those seeking a different kind of boating experience.

Public boat ramp managed by City of Jacksonville. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.

Morningstar Marinas offers a comprehensive and professional marina experience, ideal for both transient and long-term boaters. Located in a prime area, this marina is known for its exceptional service, with staff going above and beyond to meet boater needs. The marina provides a wide range of amenities including fuel, ice, water, and wifi, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. Boaters can also enjoy on-site dining and nearby provisioning options, making it a perfect stop for both leisure and practical needs.

Sadler Point Marina is a full-service marina located in Jacksonville, Florida, offering a welcoming atmosphere with a small-town, family feel. Managed by experienced owners, it provides a wide range of services including a boat yard, canvas shop, and divers for bottom cleaning. The marina is well-equipped with protected slips, fuel options, and essential amenities such as restrooms, laundry, and wifi. Boaters can enjoy on-site dining and explore nearby retail and provisioning options, making it a convenient stop for both transient and liveaboard boaters.

Browns Creek Fish Camp Inc is a classic, no-nonsense marina that serves as a reliable first stop for anglers heading out on the water. Known for its well-stocked bait shop, it offers both fresh and frozen bait, along with a variety of fishing gear. The marina provides dockage, making it a convenient spot for transient boaters. With its authentic old-school Florida vibe, Browns Creek is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.

Arlington Marina is a welcoming hub for boaters looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the river and the vibrant local boating community. With its convenient location near Exchange Club Island, it offers a perfect starting point for day trips. The marina is known for its friendly atmosphere and helpful staff, making it a popular choice for both transient and local boaters. While it may not offer liveaboard slips, it provides essential services like fuel, water, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.

Kingsley Plantation offers a reflective and educational experience set in a serene, park-like environment along the riverfront. Visitors can explore the preserved slave quarters, main house, and beautiful natural surroundings, providing a poignant reminder of Florida's past. The site is free to visit, with self-guided tours available, making it an accessible and enriching stop for those interested in history and nature.

Lamb's Yacht Center Inc is a historic marina located in Jacksonville, Florida, known for its comprehensive services and skilled tradespeople. This marina offers a large travel lift for haul-outs and is recognized as a hurricane hole, providing peace of mind for boaters. With a focus on professionalism and integrity, Lamb's Yacht Center is a trusted choice for both short-haul surveys and extensive repairs. Boaters can expect reasonable hourly rates and a commitment to quality workmanship.

Marker 32 is a polished waterfront eatery in Jacksonville, renowned for its locally sourced seafood and expansive views of the Intracoastal Waterway. This upscale dining spot offers a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for special occasions or a memorable meal with loved ones. While dockage is possible, reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this popular venue.

Riverfront Plaza is a newly revitalized park located along the scenic St. Johns River, offering a delightful blend of natural beauty and community-focused amenities. This family-friendly destination features a spacious playground with areas for both big and little kids, including giant slides and a splash pad. The park is designed with safety in mind, having a single entrance and exit, which allows parents to relax while their children play. With its expansive lawn, Riverfront Plaza is perfect for picnics, community events, and enjoying the fresh air. The park also boasts clean restrooms and is in talks to add a café for quick bites. Its picturesque views of the iconic Main Street Bridge make it a prime photo spot, and the occasional presence of food trucks adds to its charm.

Julington Creek Marina is a full-service marina known for its friendly and professional staff. It offers a welcoming environment for boaters with reasonable gas prices and well-maintained facilities. While it does not offer temporary docking for restaurant visits, it provides a reliable and supportive docking experience for transient boaters and regular members alike.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a sprawling attraction that offers a delightful blend of wildlife exhibits and lush botanical displays. It's an ideal spot for families, featuring a variety of animals, interactive play areas for children, and a scenic train ride. The gardens provide a picturesque backdrop, perfect for photography enthusiasts. While the zoo is bustling with activity, it maintains a clean and well-organized environment, ensuring a pleasant visit for all ages.

North Florida Yacht Sales is a full-service marina offering comprehensive support for boaters, including sales, storage, and provisioning. Located conveniently near Jacksonville, this marina is a hub for both new and seasoned boaters looking for expert advice and a wide range of services.

Metropolitan Park Marina is a bustling marina offering a full range of services for boaters. Located conveniently near downtown, it provides easy access to local attractions and dining options. The marina is well-equipped with fuel, water, and pump-out facilities, making it a practical stop for both transient and liveaboard boaters. With its vibrant local scene and cruiser-friendly atmosphere, it's a popular hangout for those looking to explore the city by water.

The Rudder Club of Jacksonville is a vibrant sailing club and school that offers a welcoming community for both seasoned sailors and newcomers. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, the club provides adult sailing classes and camps that are both educational and enjoyable. Members enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with a variety of amenities including a pool, full bar, and clubhouse. The club is known for its lively social events and the camaraderie among its members, making it a great place to make lasting friendships and enjoy the sport of sailing.

Clapboard Creek Fish Camp Marine offers a tranquil marina experience in Jacksonville, FL, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. With a beautiful, clean facility and a well-maintained boat ramp, it provides an ideal setting for both seasoned boaters and beginners. The marina is known for its privacy and lack of crowds, even on weekends, making it a perfect spot for a quiet getaway.

Huckins Yacht Corporation is a full-service marina renowned for its expert yacht services, including hull painting, mechanical repairs, and electrical work. Boaters can expect a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, making it a trusted resource for maintaining and servicing yachts. The marina offers essential amenities such as fuel, water, and pump-out services, ensuring a convenient and comprehensive experience for all visiting vessels.